Sayo, a chef-driven Japanese restaurant, is slated to open this summer in Peachtree Hills, stepping into the former Starfish space with a tight, sushi-forward game plan. Owner Karen Halim has said the team is aiming for a July debut, with an intimate dining room of about 50 seats that will lean into an omakase-style experience built around nigiri, sashimi and curated chef tastings.
Menu, Hours and the Space
According to What Now Atlanta, Sayo’s menu will center on nigiri and sashimi, along with rolls featuring premium ingredients such as A5 wagyu and bluefin tuna. The restaurant is also planning chef tastings for guests who want a more curated experience.
Licensing paperwork filed with the neighborhood planning unit lists proposed hours as 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The buildout covers roughly 2,121 square feet and will seat about 50 guests, as reported by What Now Atlanta.
Replacing Star Fish and Licensing History
State alcohol-account records list “STAR FISH RESTAURANT” at the same storefront, which indicates Sayo is moving into a space that has previously operated with a liquor license. The listing appears in the Georgia Department of Revenue active accounts. That continuity could help streamline some permitting steps, although final inspections and license transfers still have to clear before opening.
What to Expect
Halim told What Now Atlanta that cosmetic renovations are complete and the team is now focused on staffing and inspections. A firm opening date will be set once permits are approved. When Sayo does open, it is expected to bring a compact, chef-focused sushi option to the Peachtree Hills dining mix.
